EP 116: Dental Industry Shifts: AI, Hygiene Compacts, and Conferences with Andrew Johnston and Kevin Henry

In this episode, I was joined by Andrew Johnston, co-founder of “A Tale of Two Hygienists,” and the man responsible for The Dental Podcast Network at Dental Economics. He's also a restorative hygienist. Also making an appearance was Editor-In-Chief at Dr. Bicuspid and my Chew On This Podcast co-host, Kevin Henry. We discussed some of the noticeable movements that have been shaking the current norms in the dental industry:

• Artificial Intelligence: We had to discuss the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its industry impact. From its potential applications in administrative tasks and clinical settings to concerns about accuracy and overreliance, we tackled the evolving role of AI in the dental field for 2023 and beyond.

• Compacts between states for dental licenses: We're facing challenges with dental professionals obtaining licenses in different states and the impact on competency and efficiency. The concept of compacts is significant as it highlights the need for agreement on education standards and scope of practice across states. This issue of differing standards and practices has implications for the mobility and professional development of dental practitioners. And yes, we go into what a compact actually means!

• Evolving landscape of industry events:  Declining attendance at dental conferences introduces financial strain to vendors. It's actually helped the rise of online CE platforms. There's a need for a different approach to attract quality education and speakers to create an amazing attendee experience. 

Let's see if 2024 brings improvements but we should be prepared for new developments.

Connect with Andrew Johnston at A Tale of Two Hygienists

Connect with Kevin Henry on his IG page and at Kevin Speaks Dental

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast, Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!, also with Kevin as my co-host.

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Huge thanks to Curve Dental for sponsoring this episode! Grab a demo with them through the link below (no affiliate money to me) and see if they're a fit.

curvedental.com/duncan

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